Balloon Ride For 8 People. Advice?

[Brisayshi]

Hello all.
I'm thinking of organising a hot air balloon ride for eight people. Has anybody any experience they can share? Did you book direct? Can you recommend anyway in the Lancashire or Yorkshire regions.
Thank you

[donny48]

Landings can be a bit bumpy and rough but worth it for the experience. I thought it would be more peaceful but when the burner fires up it very loud indeed.

[bhg481]

The only time I looked into a balloon ride was many years ago but I think my comment will still be valid. Balloon rides are VERY weather dependent, especially wind, so tend to take place around 6am and 6pm when the wind often lulls. We were told that we could be telephoned to say the ride was on and we had to be at the launching pad for a given time; possibly not easy if you are trying to organise it for 8 people. We were told that the booking was valid for a year, I think, so there will be plenty of occasions when the weather will be suitable but still difficult to get you all together on one day. It's worth checking with the company that you're thinking about booking with as to exactly how they deal with weather etc.

[donny48]

Following from bhg481's post. Both of my balloon rides took place abroad with far more stable and predictable weather than Britain.

[TWR]

Pendle & Cumbria Ballons, 01254 247277, It on the A59 Longsite Road, Near Ribchester. If you know this road Bris, On the A59 heading towards Preston, Traffic Lights where Ribchester goes to your right, through the lights it's the Next farm on your right on the Bend.

[jno]

Virgin Experiences do these from 100 or so sites, but I can't find a list of them. You could call or email and ask.

https://www.virginexperiencedays.co.uk/

[Barmaid]

We booked a balloon ride for one of my dad's big birthdays. I think we only booked for 2, but there were about 10 in the basket. Because we were able to offer a launch site, we got it a bit cheaper.

[Barmaid]

Oh, wrap up well. Even on a balmy summer's evening, it is jolly cold up there!

[Tuvok]

http://www.virginballoonflights.co.uk/locations/?gclid=CM_v9t_tntECFQoA0wodltsN6Q

[Brisayshi]

Thanks all